Thirza Clements

ST. JOSEPH — Thirza Clements, 80, passed away Wednesday (April 18, 2018).

She was born Aug. 3, 1937, in Washburn, to Clifford and Mary (Keigwin) Cordes.

Thirza graduated from Illinois State University in 1960, the day before she married Don Clements on June 12.

Thirza and Don enjoyed golfing and traveling together, as well as spending time with family and friends. Thirza was a teacher for over 34 years, retiring from St. Joseph Grade School in 2002. She was an active member of the DAR, St. Joseph United Methodist Church and the Rantoul Ladies Golf League. She was an avid Illini and St. Louis Cardinals fan, often coaching from the bleachers. Some of Thirza’s favorite activities were sewing, gardening and reading. She kept the St. Joseph library doors open, reading over 500 books.

Thirza is survived by

her beloved husband of over 57 years, Don; children, Shari (Darrin) Markel and Kurt (Marilee); grandchildren, Samantha and Troy, whom she loved dearly; sisters, Lorna (Bob) Cobb and Emily Noonan; sister- in-law, Lura Cortis; brother-in-law, Bob (Pat) Clements; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She is preceded in death by her parents and brother, Gene.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 24, 2018, at Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph. The Rev. Gene Turner will officiate. Burial will be in Patterson Cemetery, St. Joseph. Visitation will be Monday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home.

The family appreciates the care Thirza received in the Carle Cardiac Unit during her time there.

Memorials can be made to the American Heart Association.

News-Gazette 4/20/2018